Gordon McArthur

Osprey sponsored athlete and mixed-climber

Climbing has become part of my daily routine. Whether training, climbing, or competing, with every hour–physically or mentally, climbing plays a role. I was once asked, “Why do you love climbing?” And the only response i could come up with was, “because without it, I feel short of breath”.

My focus is mixed climbing competitions. I travel the world every winter competing for Canada on the World Cup Ice Climbing Tour. I prepare months in advance in becoming ready to climb at my best. Throughout the “off season” I love to rock climb, spending most nights at my local crag or traveling to amazing places like Wyoming, Las Vegas, Kentucky, and my favourite: The Bow Valley (Canmore, AB).

Over the years I’ve found that in order to be fitted with readiness, you must train…and train a lot. From that I’ve built “the machine” in my backyard. Back there; it’s my fortress of solitude…where i learn, re-group, and try real hard. The backyard is outfitted with a 30ft Arch, bouldering walls/cave, and many training apparatuses.

What I do, where I go, all of it wouldn’t be possible without the support of my amazing family, and sponsors–those who believe in my dream and encourage me daily to keep going after it.

I represent Team Canada with the utmost of integrity. I support my fellow team members, and together we take on the world. We stand behind a country that promotes ice climbing and the future of competition in the sport. My current world ranking is 13th. My best result in a world cup is 4th place (in 2014).

Career Highlights

+ North American Champion (2014/15) – Ice/Mixed Climbing competition

+ Ranked 1st in Canada for World Cup Competitions (Ice/mixed)

+ 4th place at the World Cup in Bozeman, Montana (2014/15)

+ Ranked 13th Overall in the world (competitions-ice/mixed)

+ Climbed D14

+ Established what is likely the biggest/hardest sport/mixed route in the world (single pitch) - to be determined